Physical Education is only a requirement for some states’ schools throughout the United States, including Antioch Community High School. Four years of P.E. is required in the state of Illinois because the government, schools and administration would like students to live better and healthier lifestyles. Schools cannot force a student to choose a physically active lifestyle, but they can make a P.E. class as fun as possible by playing competitive games such as basketball, football and soccer.

“If you look at the obesity trends in this country over time, it’s apparent that not only are we less physically active, but health in general is declining, and if you look at the classes that are in your academic schedule, how many are those that improve your fitness,” said P.E. and health teacher Robert Hafer. “I think, similar to other classes, the benefit is up to the student. I think if they are motivated and willing to improve their fitness, then P.E. benefits them.”

Some believe gym class should be a decision for students to make instead of a graduation requirement.

“It should be a choice, but you do benefit from it as you gain endurance and be physically fit, if people wanna do it, go ahead. If they don’t, well they can be the lazy person they are,” said sophomore Sjana Henderson.

While faculty see P.E. being a smart requirement, some students don’t necessarily agree.

“I do not think that P.E. should be a requirement because half the people don’t try in my class anyways, so I’m not getting anything out of it,” said senior Jessica Tyrell.

Although some students dislike gym class, P.E. has the possibility to change a student’s life completely. If an individual really wants to transform their life through fitness, P.E. class is a great opportunity.